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Let’s Practice Yoga

The Promise and Practice of Yoga for Kids with Disabilities

Elizabeth J. Erwin Ed.D.

Montclair State University

Susan H. Lederer, Ph.D.

Adephi University

What exactly is yoga?

Yoga has been around for thousands of years. Yoga is a practice that started in India, and is now very popular in the United States and around the world. It has gained a lot of attention lately -- maybe because it is a fun and easy way for both adults and kids to feel healthy and happy.

The word “yoga” means “union” in Sanskrit, the ancient language of India. Quite simply, yoga is the “union” or coming together of mind (thoughts and feelings) and physical body. Many people feel an overall sense of well-being when they practice yoga.

There are many aspects to yoga. In short, yoga is a system of physical exercises or postures (called asanas). These asanas build strength, flexibility and confidence. Yoga is also about breathing (called pranayama), which helps calm and refresh the body and mind. We are going to focus on these basic two aspects of yoga, but there are many other parts to practicing yoga. For more information about yoga and young children, visit Next Generation Yoga.

NEXT: Why Yoga and Kids Go Together